Since the introduction of this new iPad and installing the new OS on my devices (iPhone 3GS and iPad 1), I wondered about the advantages that could be derived from it by boaters, compared to previous model and system.
iPad 2
Apart from his cameras, which are judged by all observers to be quite disappointing, iPad 2 seems to obtain unanimity from all specialists (¹).
Engadget :
"Pictures do not do justice to the iPad 2, it is really, Really great when held in your hand. iPad 2 is beautiful and has been designed with a lot of intelligence"
"The processor and graphics performance of this tablet is impressive. ”
"It may frustrate the competition to hear that, but it must be said : the iPad isn't just the best tablet on the market, It seems like it's the only tablet on the market"
Wall Street Journal :
"Although it is an evolution rather than a revolution like the first model, Apple's changes are generally pleasant and positive […] I will recommend it compared to the many competing tablets I have tested so far, especially with an entry-level price that remains attractive"
iOS 4.3
MacGeneration :
« iOS 4.3 is not a major update to Apple's mobile system, but it still adds some new features, some of which are welcome such as home sharing or connection sharing for the iPhone 4 ”
Ok, Ok.
But what's best for yachtmen ?
I can read through all the informed comments of my colleagues (¹), Reviews, The Forums, I can't find anything that improves significantly maritime use from iPad. A processor twice faster ? Double RAM capacity ? 115 grams less at arm's length ?
No, In no uncertain terms, I can't see.
The screen resolution remains the same, autonomy too. No A-GPS chipset changes (just an update) or location performance. We know a little more since the dismantling by iFixit on the components of the 3G model, only 2G/3G components have been modified.
Les composants de l'iPad2 3G - Source iFixit
About the latest operating system, iOS 4.3, I haven't seen any improvement in the use of my favorite apps. Improvements and innovations do not directly concern marine use. However, Rich Ray informed that iOS 4.3 Fixed a large memory leak that impacted some applications, as iNavX, but only on iPad.
So there's no need to rush to buy this new model if you already own the first one. And so much the better for new buyers who will benefit from the improvements for an unchanged price.
And then ?
I know it's not "commercially correct" but I'm already allowing myself some guesses about the following model. I don't really see how Apple could improve the already extremely accomplished design (finesse, lightness). So it is certainly inside the machine that it will happen. First, to satisfy the complainers, New and better cameras. Then higher definition and screen technology. Maybe Thunderbolt support (²) finally enabling high-speed connectivity with peripherals. My dream would be an iPad that would allow the physical connection of instruments, not only in WiFi, which could allow some manufacturers to connect their devices, such as satellite phones, in example, for receiving GRIB files offshore.
We can always dream, isn't it ?
—
(¹) http://www.slashgear.com/ipad-2-early-reviews-roundup-10139266/
Bonjour,
What do you think of Navionics nautical charts, otherwise what are the best cards ?
Is it possible to connect the weather transmitted by Sirius in one way or another? (you have to buy the box) In this case in the United States because I am currently sailing in the Bahamas.
Thank you for your site.
I think the greatest of it : Vector maps with an unrivalled quality/price ratio to date.
Sorry, don't know.
Congratulations for your site which is really well done.
I've always been impressed by the user-friendliness of Apple machines. The iPad seems to continue this tradition wonderfully ; which makes it very attractive with iNavx. Nevertheless, I would like to have your opinion on the following reflections :
– isn't the absence of a USB port a big handicap, by prohibiting access to often cheap peripherals ?
– can we easily live with the absence of a keyboard ?
– even when using the accessories presented on your site, Isn't the Ipad too fragile in a marine environment ?
– can the integrated GPS be sufficient on board and can it be coupled with a VHF DSC ?
Thank you for giving me your opinion on these few objections that come to my attention
Marc
We know how to connect everything to WiFi and the iPad is, by essence, mobile, Why immobilize it with cables ?
The answer is very personal. For my part, I type faster on the iPad's touch keyboard than on my MB, but I'm not a typist ! In any case, to navigate there is very rarely a need for a keyboard.
Definitely less than a MacBook. But only Panasonic "rugged" laptops can withstand anything, and tracers dedicated to yachting.
Yes in the majority of cases, even in an aluminum boat (I received testimonials of confidence), but, isn't it, the point is not sent back to a VHF. Finally, not that I know. I'll ask the developer.
I just got Rich Ray's answer :
This means using the NMEA OUT connector (RS422) iMux to send back GPS data (and waypoints) to VHF and the pilot. VHF only uses position data.
about Ipad and satellite phone connections
What do you think about the possibility of using the Inmarsat phone (IsatPhone Pro) Which can communicate via Bluetooth with devices. cf Nauticom website
Can't we use it to get grib figgiers directly on Ipad?
Thank you for your response
The IsatPhone Pro is an attractive device, unfortunately it does not transmit data like Iridium, and the limitation of the number of characters in SMS and Mail is prohibitive (little more than Twitter !). So it's above all a phone at an attractive price. We will have to wait and hope for a possible evolution.